Join us in leading one of the most advanced genomic services in the NHS
The Southwest Genomics Medicine Service (SWGMS) is at the forefront of delivering cutting-edge genomic testing and innovation across a diverse population from Gloucestershire to Cornwall.
Bringing together established genomic laboratories at North Bristol NHS Trust and Royal Devon University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, alongside the Genomics Medicine Service Alliance based in Exeter, SWGMS is a leader in whole genome sequencing, cancer diagnostics, and the integration of genomics into routine clinical care.
We are now seeking an exceptional Chief Operating Officer (COO) to provide operational leadership, strategic oversight, and system-wide delivery across this complex and high-profile regional service.
The Chief Operating Officer for the SWGMS will be expected to oversee the delivery of the SWGMS in line with the national strategic direction for the development of the service and all its functions. They will need to have experience in all aspects of change management and operational delivery at a senior level with extensive experience of Executive level engagement and stakeholder management. They will need to continually improve service delivery, maximising technological advances and capitalise on the opportunities to translate research into clinical practice to ensure the SWGMS remains a leader in science, research and innovation and delivery of genomic testing. They will be responsible for aligning the delivery of service provision to meet the ambitions of the NHS 10 year plan and realise the required left shift.
North Bristol NHS Trust employs over 12,000 staff providing healthcare to the residents of Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset from our award-winning hospital building at Southmead. We are the regional Major Trauma Centre, and an internationally recognised centre of excellence in a range of services and major specialities. Our vision is that by enabling our teams to be the best that they can be, we will provide exceptional healthcare, personally delivered.
North Bristol NHS Trust values all people as individuals. We aim to be an anti-discriminatory organisation and are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We welcome applicants from all underrepresented groups.
The Role
As COO, you will be accountable for the end-to-end operational delivery of SWGMS, ensuring alignment with national priorities and driving innovation, quality, and performance across the service.
Working at executive level, you will lead across organisational boundaries to embed genomics into mainstream clinical pathways, translating research and technological advances into improved patient outcomes.
This is a high-impact system leadership role , requiring strategic vision, operational excellence, and strong partnership working across NHS organisations, academia, and industry.
About You
We are looking for an accomplished and credible senior leader who can operate confidently at executive level across a complex system.
Essential Experience
Significant senior leadership experience in large-scale NHS operational delivery
Proven track record of leading services across multiple organisations or systems
Experience delivering major transformation, service redesign, or reconfiguration
Strong experience of stakeholder engagement at executive and system level
Knowledge & Expertise
Understanding of the national direction of genomic medicine and NHS policy
Experience aligning strategy to measurable operational outcomes
Knowledge of governance, quality standards, and regulatory requirements
Skills & Attributes
Strategic thinker with strong operational grip
Excellent communication, influencing and negotiation skills
Ability to lead across organisational boundaries and complex partnerships
Passion for delivering patient-centred, high-quality services
Qualifications
Master’s degree or equivalent senior leadership experience
Evidence of continued professional development and leadership training
For a more detailed job description, main responsibilities, and Person Specification, please refer to the job description document attached to this vacancy.
